Wittenberg University is facing financial problems.

In today’s Morning Briefing, we look at how deep the proposed faculty cuts at the university could go. We also have a report on Kamala Harris’ campaign for president. Reporter Hulsey Lynn talked to local democratic delegates who cast nomination ballots making Harris the party’s presumptive nominee on Friday.

If you have thoughts or feedback on this newsletter or other news tips, please let me know at Greg.Lynch@coxinc.com.

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Wittenberg faculty, alumni rip proposal to cut 60% of professors, many staff

A preliminary plan presented to staff, faculty and alumni at Wittenberg University forecasts massive employee cuts.

• About the university: Wittenberg is a private liberal arts university just north of downtown Springfield that was established in 1845. The university said it had 1,288 undergraduate students and 45 graduate students as of fall 2023, along with 25 athletic teams in NCAA Division III.

• Financial problems: The university is facing many of the same challenges as other smaller, private colleges. Fewer people are graduating from high school, and even fewer are choosing to attend college.

• Staff size: As of this year, 97.5 faculty members worked at Wittenberg, according to a document obtained by the Springfield News-Sun. No more than 40 would be retained under this plan.

• How big are the proposed cuts? The plan would reduce faculty by 60% for the 2025-26 school year and reduce staff during the upcoming school year by a quarter to a third.

• Online learning: Many faculty members could be replaced with online learning platforms.

• Advance notice: Professors are on contract through the 2024-25 school year. Federal law around mass layoffs would indicate staff would get at least 60 days’ notice of cuts.

• What happens next? Wittenberg board members are expected to vote on a plan on Aug. 15, but it is not certain that this exact plan the faculty has seen will be the one voted on. Announcements about how many jobs will end up being cut could come as soon as Aug. 16.

Harris crosses threshold to win Dem Party nomination for president with support of local party delegates

The excitement around Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign for president is akin to the 2008 candidacy of Barack Obama, according to local Democratic Party delegates who cast nomination ballots making Harris the party’s presumptive nominee.

• Securing the nomination: The Democratic National Committee announced on Friday that Harris had won enough convention delegate votes in a virtual roll call to secure the nomination.

• Statement from Harris: “We believe in the promise of America: the promise of freedom, opportunity, and justice — not just for some, but for all. And, ultimately, in this election — you all have heard me say many times — we each face the question: What kind of country do we want to live in? Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion, and rule of law, or a country of chaos, fear, and hate?” Harris said. “And the beauty of our democracy is we each, every one of us, has the power to answer that question. And that is why I say, and know, the power is with the people.”

• What delegates said:

- “I think what Harris brings is she brings the success of the Biden administration with a new generation of leadership at the same time. I think that’s what is so thrilling.” — former Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley

- “Her character and her experience is what we need in this country. I feel she is a stark comparison to her opponent and we can’t go back, back to the division, everything that Trump stands for.” — Austin Smith, chairman of the Clark County Democratic Party

- “Kamala is qualified, hardworking, and an energizing boost to the Democratic Party.” — Desiree Tims, president and CEO of Innovation Ohio and the unopposed Democratic candidate for the 38th Ohio House district

- “They’re as energized as I think they were with Obama in ‘08.” — Brian Hester, former chairman of the Butler County Democratic Party

What to know today

• One big takeaway: A Dayton man accused of setting a kitten on fire is now facing additional charges.

• Tip of the day: Those looking for a workout to clear their mind while focusing on strength, mobility, core stability and balance may find it in a class at Speakeasy Yoga.

• Person to know today: Carol Collins. The horticulturist and director of leisure services is Oakwood’s longest-serving employee. She is being honored at the “Smith Gardens 50th Anniversary Celebration and Blanket Concert” featuring Puzzle of Light on Sunday, August 18.

• Stat of the day: 4-7. The record the Dayton Flyers football team finished with last season, and one second-year coach Trevor Andrews is optimistic about improving on this year.

• Big move of the day: The Yellow Springs Baking Company has opened a storefront in Yellow Springs after leaving 2nd Street Market in May.

• Happening today: A celebration of local art and artists, food festivals, classic cars, and a thought-provoking exhibition are among events to keep on your radar this weekend.

• Things to do: Check out our list of 36 events in the Dayton region to keep you busy in August.

• Photo of the day: Netherlands artist I AM EELCO paints a wildlife scene on the Avant Garde Building on East Third Street Friday morning. I AM EELCO is one of four national and regional artists painting murals on buildings around Dayton as part of the WHOA Mural Project. The project coincides with the Downtown Dayton Partnership’s Art in the City festival. Photo by Jim Noelker.